Global Treasures: Royal Palace of Madrid

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1031

UPC: 879061006302

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

The charming older part of Madrid is dominated by numerous monumental and magnificent buildings including, most notably, the wonderful Palacio Real or "Royal Palace of Madrid." A harmonious and elegantly designed facade opens onto the Plaza De Oriente. This was formerly the location of numerous buildings; originally, the Moors built an alcazar here, and in the course of time it was transformed into the main palace of the Hapsburg royal family that once reigned over the country.

The magnificent halls of the palace are breathtaking. The hall in the Comedor De Gala, contains the most beautiful, grandiose chandeliers and a ceiling fresco painted by Anton Raphael Mengs. The throne room ceiling fresco is by Gianbattista Tiepolo.

Even though the royal family no longer resides in the palace, it is still a much-prized historic jewel in the Spanish crown.